This new group of three compact Bat Paks is essentially "2-in-1 universal battery packs" that also do double duty as chargers to recharge portable electronic devices covering the field from cellphones to laptop computers. The largest model relies on four AA batteries (included in price) that, they tell us, can supply power for devices capable of receiving power via 5-volt USB: cellphone, MP3s, PDAs, maybe even PSPs. Then there's an ultra-slim rechargeable lithium-ion cell that provides up to 20 hours of backup power for handheld devices. The third item is a compact external laptop lithium-ion battery, cranking out an extra 2-4 hours of portable power.

WildCharge
As the name suggests, WildCharge has entered the fray with a pair of its version of the wireless, portable, instant power supplier. The larger of the two, a flat, thin pad, can pump out up to 90 watts, enough to handle most laptop computers. The smaller—appropriately called the WildCharger Mini—delivers a maximum of 15 watts, following the lead of its big brother, simultaneously powering and charging three or four smaller units—phones, players, and cameras.

Maha Energy
Maha Energy introduced a companion piece for its Powerex line of batteries with the telltale title of MH-C 9000WizardOne Battery Charger & Analyzer, designed for charging, conditioning, analyzing, cycling, forming, and discharging one to four AA or AAA cells. This four-slotted Wizard offers five modes and settings accompanied by a 3-1/2x1-1/2-inch LCD backlit screen that simultaneously indicates the battery's capacity and voltage. Its "Break-In" mode produces a forming charge for new batteries, while the "Cycle" mode permits consecutive charging and discharging.

Promaster
Promaster announced an upgraded version of its XtraPower PRO charger kit featuring a new built-in auto switching power supply for 110- to 220-volt compatibility and the all-new Promaster GO! A wireless power supply/charger for digital cameras, cellphones, music players, and other USB-powered devices. This compact, modular designed machine also features a built-in fuel gauge that monitors the condition of the internal power unit, which can then be recharged from AC, DC, or a USB power port.

Hahnel
Hahnel's newly introduced BatteryGrips for DSLRs can double the power available for professional photographers—which means longer uninterrupted shooting. Supplied with one Hahnel Li-Ion battery, BatteryGrips are available for multiple models of Nikon digital SLR cameras, as well as multiple Canon digital SLRs. The grips match perfectly with the digital SLR camera body being used. An additional adapter for six AA batteries offers a very flexible power back-up solution. Hahnel is distributed exclusively in the United States by R.T.S. Inc.